The kidneys are bean-shaped organs located on the posterior abdominal wall below the diaphragm and above the waist, with the right kidney slightly lower than the left due to the liver's position. Each kidney contains an outer cortex and inner medulla divided into pyramids that collect urine in the pelvis and ureter. The kidneys filter waste from the blood to produce urine and regulate fluid balance and red blood cell production through hormones while receiving blood from the renal artery and draining into the renal vein.

1. Kidney anatomy

2. Location
Lies on the posterior abdominal wall, one on each side of
the vertebral column, below the diaphragm.
Right kidney posterior to liver, left kidney posterior to
spleen.
T12-L3
Right kidney slightly lower than the left kidney because
of the space occupied by the liver.

3. Structure
Kidneys are bean shaped organ of the renal system.
11cm long, 6cm wide, 3cm thick.
weight 150g
Cortex: outer reddish layer
Medulla: innermost layer
Pyramids: cup shaped cavities in which urine collects
Pelvis: funnel like dilated part of the ureter in the kidney

4. There are three layers of tissues surrounding each kidneys:
 The outermost layer is a tough connective tissue layer called the
renal fascia.
The second layer is called the perirenal fat capsule, which helps
anchor the kidneys in place.
 The third and innermost layer is the renal capsule.

5. Function of kidney:
remove waste products from the body.
remove drugs from the body.
balance the body's fluids.
release hormones that regulate blood pressure.
produce an active form of vitamin D that promotes strong, healthy bones.
control the production of red blood cells.

6. Blood supply:
Artery: renal artery
Vein: renal vein